Shin Kwan-woo, professor of chemistry at Sogang University, who presented as the speaker emphasized the importance of ODA and investment in science and technology ASEAN countries have been attracting the attention of the world, with economic growth of around 7% in recent years. By 2020, nearly $ 1 trillion of international funds will be introduced into ASEAN for transportation system and infrastructure construction. Prof. Shin said: "Malaysia and Indonesia are entering the middle class, but Laos and Cambodia are still very poor in infrastructure, the approach should be completely different depending on country where you invest".
Shin also stressed the need for a new southern policy from a multilateral perspective, taking the Mekong River issue as an example. Professor Shin said, “Because the Mekong River is in contact with many ASEAN countries such as Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. This benefit of country can be an obstacle for other countries. As many have pointed out the lack of a multilateral perspective, the new southern policy should be correct”.
Dr. Lokmin Dafuri, Former Indonesian Minister of Maritime Affairs, noted the importance of moderate coastal and marine development in a world of interconnection. "Earth's coastal area is only 10% of the total area, but it's important to humanity, where 35% of its natural resources are concentrated. But reckless marine development has greatly reduced our capacity. Development on ocean must be done without exceeding the capacity of the earth" he said.
With his opinion, Dr. Kum Dongwha, president of VKIST said, “Vietnam want to follow benchmark Korea with a well-established science and technology infrastructure. By providing the problem-solving capabilities that local businesses need”. Dr. Kum added, “Vietnam and South Korea will be able to improve their nationality through science and technology exchange.”
